Surgical Technology
Surgical technologists are Allied Health Professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. The surgical technologist works under medical supervision to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures. This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room or environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a physician’s performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
The motto of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) is “Aeger Primo – The Patient First.” This is facilitated through caring, critical thinking, and effective communication. The educational goal of AST is “Enhancing the Profession to Ensure Quality Patient Care.” The Surgical Technology Program reflects both statements.
Surgical Technology:
- is a dynamic, cognitive, behavioral, technical process with distinct functions and desired outcomes so that national standards of practice are maintained.
- is dedicated to the improvement of the profession.
- promotes enhancement of the safety and protection of personnel and patients.
- promotes, restores, and maintains health for patients.
- requires observation of a code of ethics.
- supports the dignity and rights of the patient.
- assesses and meets the needs of the patient.
- promotes life-long learning.
Jackson College Offers the following program options:
Duties
Surgical technologists typically do the following:
- Prepare operating rooms for surgery
- Sterilize equipment and make sure that there are adequate supplies for surgery
- Ready patients for surgery, such as by washing and disinfecting incision sites
- Help surgeons during surgery by passing them instruments and other sterile supplies
- Count supplies, such as surgical instruments, to ensure that no foreign objects are retained in patients
- Maintain a sterile environment to prevent patient infection
Before an operation, surgical technologists prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment. They prepare sterile solutions and medications used in surgery and check that all surgical equipment is working properly. Surgical technologists also bring patients to the operating room and get them ready for surgery by positioning them on the table, covering them with sterile drapes, and washing and disinfecting incision sites. And they help the surgical team put on sterile gowns.
During an operation, surgical technologists pass the sterile instruments and supplies to surgeons and first assistants. They might hold retractors, hold internal organs in place during the procedure, or set up robotic surgical equipment. Technologists also may handle specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
After the operation is complete, surgical technologists may apply bandages and other dressings to the incision site. They may also transfer patients to recovery rooms and restock operating rooms after a procedure.
Ambulatory surgical centers are included in outpatient care centers.
Surgical assistants and technologists wear scrubs and sterile gowns, gloves, caps, and masks while they are in the operating room. Their work may be physically demanding, requiring them to be on their feet for long periods. Surgical technologists also may need to help move patients or lift heavy trays of medical supplies. At times, they may be exposed to communicable diseases and unpleasant sights, odors, and materials.
Work Schedules
Most surgical assistants and technologists work full time. Surgical assistants and technologists employed in hospitals may work or be on call during nights, weekends, and holidays. They may also be required to work shifts lasting longer than 8 hours.
Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook
Job Opportunities
Surgical assistants and technologists help with surgical operations.
Surgical technologists held about 110,700 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of surgical technologists were as follows:
- Hospitals; state, local, and private: 72%
- Offices of physicians: 11%
- Outpatient care centers: 11%
- Offices of dentists: 2%
- Administrative and support services: 1%
Career Outlook Quick Facts
Overall employment of surgical assistants and technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 9,600 openings for surgical assistants and technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
- 2021 Median Pay: $48,510 per year, $23.32 per hour
- On-the-job Training: None
- Number of Jobs, 2021: 128,700
- Job Outlook, 2021-31: 6% (As fast as average)
- Employment Change, 2021-31:7,700
Professional Organizations
For career resources, visit the following professional organizations: